Workstation

ABSTRACT

A workstation comprising a beam having a length and comprising longitudinally extending first and second channels. The first channel is spaced apart from the second channel in a substantially parallel relationship therewith. A first component has an insert portion disposed in the first channel, and the second component has an insert portion disposed in the second channel. In one preferred embodiment, a second beam is spaced apart from the first beam in a substantially parallel relationship therewith. The second beam has a length and comprises longitudinally extending first and second channels, wherein the first channel of the second beam is spaced apart from the second channel of the second beam in a substantially parallel relationship therewith.

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a workstation, and in particular, to a workstation capable of being configured with various components.

[0002] Workspace systems or workstations, including for example, various wall panel systems typically include wall panels that are connected with various connectors. Typically, the wall panels used in such wall panel systems are not transparent and define a closed space or workstation, such that the user cannot see to the other side of the wall panel. As such, these types of systems do not promote open communication between various personnel stationed at one or more workstations. In addition, various components, such as shelving, are typically connected to the connectors positioned at the ends of the wall panels, such that the components are supported only at specific discrete locations, rather than being moveable along the length of the panel at various off-module positions.

[0003] Other workspace systems may include a portable cart or workstation that is configured with a display wall. Such workstations can be particularly suitable for various group meetings or classroom settings where a temporary display wall is necessary to facilitate discussions. Often, such workstations are also configured with various storage components, including for example cabinets and shelving, to provide space for various office supplies, including for example writing implements. Often, such workstations can be heavy, and may be difficult to move from one location to another. In general, the display wall is configured as one of a blackboard, a marker board or a tackable surface. As such, the display wall may not be suitable for concurrently displaying various papers, for example by tacking to a tackable surface, while at the same time providing a writing surface, such as a marker board, for real time commentary.

SUMMARY

[0004] Briefly stated, the invention is directed to a workstation comprising a beam having a length and comprising longitudinally extending first and second channels. The first channel is spaced apart from the second channel in a substantially parallel relationship therewith. A first component has an insert portion disposed in the first channel, and the second component has an insert portion disposed in the second channel.

[0005] In one preferred embodiment, the first component is a barrier member. In another preferred embodiment, the second component is a marker board.

[0006] In another aspect, the beam comprises a pair of first and second channels positioned on opposite sides thereof. In one preferred embodiment, at least one of the first and second channels has a T-shaped cross-section.

[0007] In yet another aspect, the workstation includes a support frame having a first and second vertically extending and spaced apart support members. A first horizontal beam extends between the first and second support members, and comprises longitudinally extending first and second channels. The first channel is spaced apart from the second channel in a substantially parallel relationship therewith. A second horizontal beam extends between the first and second support members in a spaced apart relationship with the first beam, and comprises longitudinally extending first and second channels. The first channel of the second beam is spaced apart from the second channel of the second beam in a substantially parallel relationship therewith. A first component extends between the first and second beams and engages the first channel on each of the first and second beams. A second component engages at least one of the second channels of the first and second beams.

[0008] In yet another aspect of the invention, a method for configuring a workstation includes disposing a first component between first and second beams and engaging a first channel on each of the first and second beams with a first component. In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes engaging at least one second channel on one of first and second beams with a second component. In another preferred embodiment, the method further includes sliding the second component within at least one of the second channels of the first and second beams.

[0009] In another aspect, the invention further comprises disengaging a second component from at least one of the second channels of the first and second beams and engaging at least one of the second channels of the first and second beams with a third component.

[0010] The present inventions provide significant advantages over other work space assemblies, including various workstations. For example, the invention provides a workspace or workstation that can be easily and quickly reconfigured by engaging or disengaging one or more components with one or more channels in one or more support beams. Moreover, the components are infinitely adjustable along the length of the beams and can be easily moved to various desired positions therealong.

[0011] In addition, the workstation can be simultaneously configured with different types of components. For example, a first component may comprise a barrier member, which may be tackable, and a second component may comprise a marker board, which may overlie portions of the barrier member such that the components can be accessed and used concurrently.

[0012] The beams provide structure for the assembly such that the barrier member and other components can be made of lightweight non-structural materials, such as fabrics and the like. As such, the workstation can be easily transported from one location to another.

[0013] The present invention, together with further objects and advantages, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a workstation.

[0015]FIG. 2 is a side view of the workstation.

[0016]FIG. 3 is an end view of the workstation.

[0017]FIG. 4 is an end view of a beam.

[0018]FIG. 5 is a partial end view of a portion of a barrier member.

[0019]FIG. 6 is a partial end view of another portion of the barrier member.

[0020]FIG. 7 is an enlarged partial end view of a portion of a barrier member.

[0021]FIG. 8 is a side view of a hanger member.

[0022]FIG. 9 is a front view of the hanger member.

[0023]FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of the hanger member.

[0024]FIG. 11 is an end view of a beam with a component engaged therewith.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] Referring to the drawings and as best shown in FIGS. 1-4, a workstation 2 includes a frame 4 having a pair of vertically extending support members 6. Each support member includes a pair of spaced apart and parallel tubes 8 joined at one end with a curved tube portion 10. An inner and outer plate 12, 14 are nested in the curved portion and form an upper support 16, with the inner plate 12 having an opening 18 formed therein. A pair of plates 12, 14 also are connected between a lower portion of the tubes and form a lower support 38, with the inner plate 12 having an opening 18 formed therein. Preferably, the plates 12, 14 and tubes 8, 10 are formed of a metal, such as steel or aluminum.

[0026] Each vertical support member further includes a leg assembly 20 having a pair of legs 30 having an upper portion 22 joined with a cross member 32, preferably configured as a L-shaped bracket, for example by welding. Each leg 30 includes a middle portion 24 angled outwardly from the substantially vertical upper portions 22, and a lower substantially vertical portion 26. A caster 28 or other wheel structure, which is preferably lockable, is connected to the lower portion 26 and is supported on a floor or other support surface. Preferably, the upper portion 22 of the legs is configured with a tubular insert portion that is dimensioned to be received in the lower end of the tubes 8. A shelf 34 extends longitudinally between and is connected with the cross members 32 to provide a substantially horizontal support surface.

[0027] It should be understood that in other embodiments, the vertical support members can comprise poles, as disclosed for example in U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/104,101, filed Oct. 13, 1998, and PCT application PCT/US99/23794, filed Oct. 13, 1999, both entitled “Work Space Management and Furniture System,” the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0028] An upper and lower beam 40, 42 extend longitudinally between and are connected to the vertical support members 6, and in particular to the upper and lower supports 16, 38. The terms “longitudinal” as used herein means of or relating to length or the lengthwise direction or dimension. Preferably, the upper and lower beams 40, 42 have a substantially horizontal orientation and are spaced apart in a substantially parallel relationship to define an opening 44 therebetween. Alternatively, it should be understood that the support members 6 could have a horizontal orientation, or some other angled orientation, and the beams 40, 42 could have a vertical orientation, or some other angled orientation. The beams 40, 42 preferably have the same cross-section and are preferably extruded. The beams also are preferably made of aluminum, but may be made of any structural material such as wood, steel, hard plastic, fiberglass, etc.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 4, each beam 40, 42 preferably includes a substantially flat portion 46 forming an outwardly facing channel along the length of the bottom and top of the beams 40, 42, respectively, and an opposite curved portion 48. The openings 18 formed in the inner plates 12 of the upper and lower supports 16, 38 are shaped to receive the ends 50 of the beams 40, 42, with the mating non-symmetrical shape of the beams 40, 42 and the opening 18 acting as a key combination that prevents rotation of the beams 40, 42 in the openings 18. A rib 52 extends between the members and includes a socket 54 formed in the middle thereof. A fastener 56 extends through the outer plates 14 of the support members 16, 38 and threadably engages the socket 54 on opposite ends 50 of the beams.

[0030] Each beam 40, 42 includes a pair of first and second channels 58, 60 formed on opposite sides of the beam. The first and second channels 58, 60 preferably run the length of the beam, although it should be understood that they could have a shorter extent, and are preferably spaced apart in a substantially parallel relationship. The second channel 60 preferably has a T-shaped cross-section. When secured to the upper supports, the upper beam 40 is oriented with an outer surface of the curved member 48 facing upwardly such that the second channels 60 on each side of the beam are positioned above the first channels 58. Conversely, when secured to the lower supports, the lower beam 42 is oriented with the outer surface of the curved member 48 facing downwardly such that the second channels 60 on each side of the beam are positioned below the first channels 58.

[0031] Referring to FIGS. 1-3 and 5-7, a component, shown as a barrier member 70, is disposed in the opening 44 between the beams 40, 42 and is secured to the upper and lower beams. In particular, the barrier member 70 includes a sheet material 72 and a strip 74, 75 secured along the upper and lower edges 76, 78 of the sheet material with stitching, adhesive or other know attachment devices. Although the strips are shown as having substantially the same length as the sheet material it should be understood that the strip can be shorter than the sheet material, or that a plurality of strip members, or clips or other hanger members, can be secured to the edge of the short material. In a preferred embodiment, the sheet material 72 preferably comprises a fabric or other flexible material. It should be understood that the barrier member can comprise a foam, board, mat, or other material that is preferably tackable.

[0032] It should be understood that the term “component” refers to any device that is secured to the beam, including for example, a barrier member, a shelf or tray, various holding devices, including for example and without limitation, pencil and document holders, storage devices, including for example and without limitation cabinets, worksurfaces, CPU holders, racks, dividers, lights, screens, clips and other known office furniture components.

[0033] The strips 74, 75 preferably comprise as a hook, which includes an insert portion 80 that is shaped to be received in the first channels 58 on the upper and lower beams 40, 42. Preferably, the edges 76, 78 of the sheet material include a fold 82 that is secured to the strips 74, 75 and is folded back on the sheet material 72 so as to hide the end of the strip and/or the stitching or other devices for attaching the strip to the sheet material. Preferably, the bottom hook 75 is coextruded as a one-piece member from two different materials. The upper section 77, which is attached to the edge 78 of the sheet material, and the lower hook 79 are preferably made of a hard plastic, such as PVC (Prime 4070), to provide stiffness and strength to allow the sheet material to be stitched, or otherwise attached thereto, and also for connecting the sheet material to the beam. A middle portion 81 is made of a relatively flexible material, such as TECHNOR Apex Flex Alloy 9100-35UV, which can be stretched to maintain tension in the sheet material and to accommodate various tolerances. As stated above, the sheet material itself can be made of a stretchable material, such as an elastomeric material, which can be stretched as it is installed on the beams so as to maintain the sheet material in tension. Tension of the sheet material can improve the appearance thereof by eliminating any wrinkles, and can stabilize the sheet material as various objects are attached thereto, for example by tacking.

[0034] When installed, the barrier member 70 can be stretched between the upper and lower beams 40, 42 as the hook members 80 are inserted in the first channels 58 of the upper and lower beams on one side of the workstation. A similar or different component, comprising for example another a barrier member 70 as shown in FIG. 3, can also be disposed between and secured to the upper and lower 40, 42 beams on the opposite side thereof as the hooks 80 of the barrier member are engaged with the first channels 58 on that side of the upper and lower beams. Because the upper and lower beams 40, 42 are a mirror image of each other, the outer second channels 60 are left exposed above the first channels of the upper beam and below the first channels 58 of the lower beam 42, even if a component, such as a barrier member, has a portion disposed in and engaged with the first channels 58. In this way, various components can be simultaneously installed in and engaged with the first and second channels 58, 60. It should be understood that the although the barrier member 70 is shown as preferably extending the length of the upper and lower beams 40, 42, it could be made shorter, such that it extends along only a portion of the length of the beam members. In such a configuration, the barrier member can be moved along the length of the beams to different positions as the insert portions are slid in the first channels. It should also be understood that no components, and in particular no barrier members, need be installed in the first channels such that at least a portion of the opening 44 is left exposed. It also should be understood that components other than the barrier member can be installed in the first channels, concurrently therewith, depending on the length of the barrier member, or by themselves.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 8-10, another component is shown, and is configured as a marker board 84. It should be understood that the term marker board refers to any member having a surface capable of being marked or written on, whether erasable or not, and including for example and without limitation, a slate member, blackboard, paper (including paper flip charts), and/or white board. For example, an erasable white board, preferably a hi-gloss laminate or dry-wipe laminate, is shown in the Figures. The marker board 84 preferably has a length substantially the same as the barrier member, such that the marker board extends between and covers the opening or space 44 formed between the upper and lower beams 40, 42. Preferably, the marker board 84 has at least a pair of holes 86 formed adjacent a top edge 88 thereof The component further includes a pair of hanger members 90 each having a laterally extending insert portion 92, preferably having a T-shape such that it can be received in the second channel 60 of the upper beam 40, a hanging strap portion 94 extending from the insert portion and a post portion 96 extending laterally from the opposite end of the strap portion. The strap portion 94 is preferably slightly curved so as to conform to the curved outer surface of the beam 40, although it should be understood that the weight of the marker board or other component, may pull the hanger member in tension such that it conforms to the outer surface of the beam.

[0036] The post portion 96 includes a cap portion 98 on the end thereof In operation, the post portion 96 is inserted through one of the openings 86 in the marker board, such that the cap portion 98 snaps through the opening and captures the marker board on the post 96. The hanger member 90 further includes a bumper portion 100 extending from an inner surface of the strap member proximate to and across from the end of the T-shaped insert portion 92. The bumper portion 100 rides along the outer surface of the beam 40 below the second channel 60, which reduces the wear and friction on the strap portion. The hanger member 90 is preferably made a plastic, such as a 100% ABS, or alternatively, 30% or 33% glass-filled Nylon (ABS). The insert portion 92 is initially inserted through an opening 83 or cutout communicating with the channel 60 and which is dimensioned and shaped (preferably circular) to receive the insert portion. The hanger member 90 can then be slid in the channel 60 to the desired location, thereby allowing other hanger members to be inserted through the opening 83 into the channel.

[0037] Preferably, the marker board 84 is secured or connected only to the upper beam 40, although it should be understood that it could also be secured to the lower beam. Preferably, the marker board 84 has a width that is less than the length of the beams 40, 42, such that it can be slid along the upper beam 40 as the hanger member insert portion 92 slides in the second channel 60. Since the second channel 60 is positioned above the first channel 58, the marker board 84 can be disposed over the barrier member 70, or other underlying component, in and overlying relationship therewith. Therefore, for example, a portion of the barrier member can be accessible to a user, for example for tacking, with the marker board covering another portion of the barrier member. It should be understood that a plurality of components, meaning more than one, can be secured within any one of the first or second channels 58, 60. Likewise, it should be understood that one or more components can be secured within the channels 58, 60 on both sides of the beams. It also should be understood that the components can be configured to engage either the first or second channels. Therefore, for example, the barrier member can be secured in one or more of the second channels, while a marker board, or one or more other components, can be secured in one or more of the first channels.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 11, yet another component is shown, and is configured as a shelf 102, which means any support surface, such as a tray or worksurface, typically horizontal, that is capable of supporting one or more objects. The shelf 102 includes an upwardly extending insert portion 104 that is shaped and configured to be inserted into the upstanding portion of the T-shaped second channel 60 on the lower beam 42. The shelf 102 further includes a support portion 106, configured as a truss, having a rear support surface 108 that engages the outer surface 62 of the lower beam 42 below the second channel 60. The shelf 102 further includes a tray portion 110 extending horizontally outward from the support portion 106 in a cantilevered configuration. The tray 110 preferably includes an upturned lip portion 112 formed along the peripheral free edge of the tray and a plurality of longitudinally extending ribs 114, which both provide increased resistance to bending, as well as various stops or steps for engaging documents and the like that may be rested or supported on the tray portion. Preferably the shelf component is made of PVC plastic. Although the orientation of the insert portion 104 and support portion 106 are configured to engage the lower beam 42, it should be understood that those aspects could also be shaped and configured to engage the second channel 60 in the upper beam 40 above the first channel 58, or either of the first channels.

[0039] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As such, it is intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting and that it is the appended claims, including all equivalents thereof, which are intended to define the scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A workstation comprising: a beam having a length and comprising longitudinally extending first and second channels, wherein said first channel is spaced apart from said second channel in a substantially parallel relationship therewith; a first component having an insert portion disposed in said first channel, wherein said first component is supported by said beam; and a second component having an insert portion disposed in said second channel, wherein said second component is supported by said beam.
 2. The invention of claim 1 wherein said beam comprises a first beam and further comprising a second beam spaced apart from said first beam in a substantially parallel relationship therewith, wherein said second beam has a length and comprises longitudinally extending first and second channels, wherein said first channel of said second beam is spaced apart from said second channel of said second beam in a substantially parallel relationship therewith.
 3. The invention of claim 2 wherein said first component extends between said first and second beams, wherein said insert portion comprises a first insert portion disposed in said first channel of said first beam and wherein said first component further comprises a second insert portion disposed in said first channel of said second beam.
 4. The invention of claim 2 wherein said lengths of said first and second beams have a substantially horizontal orientation.
 5. The invention of claim 4 wherein said first and second beams have opposite ends, and further comprising a vertically extending support member connected to at least one of said ends of said first and second beams.
 6. The invention of claim 4 wherein said first beam is an upper beam and said second beam is a lower beam underlying said upper beam, and wherein said first channel of said upper beam is positioned below said second channel of said upper beam, and wherein said first channel of said lower beam is positioned above said second channel of said lower beam.
 7. The invention of claim 1 wherein said first component comprises a barrier member.
 8. The invention of claim 7 wherein said second component comprises a marker board.
 9. The invention of claim 8 wherein said second component further comprises a hanger having an insert portion engaging said second channel, and wherein said marker board is disposed on said hanger.
 10. The invention of claim 7 wherein said second component comprises a shelf.
 11. The invention of claim 1 wherein said second channel has a T-shaped cross-section.
 12. The invention of claim 1 wherein said beam comprises a pair of first and second channels positioned on opposite sides of said beam, and further comprising a third component having an insert portion disposed in one of said first and second channels on said side of said beam opposite said side of said beam on which said first and second components are disposed.
 13. A workstation comprising: a support frame having a first and second vertically extending and spaced apart support members; a first horizontal beam extending between said first and second support members, said first beam comprising longitudinally extending first and second channels, wherein said first channel is spaced apart from said second channel in a substantially parallel relationship therewith; a second horizontal beam extending between said first and second support members in a spaced apart relationship with said first beam, said second beam comprising longitudinally extending first and second channels, wherein said first channel of said second beam is spaced apart from said second channel of said second beam in a substantially parallel relationship therewith; a first component extending between said first and second beams and engaging said first channel on each of said first and second beams; and a second component engaging at least one of said second channels of said first and second beams.
 14. The invention of claim 13 wherein said first beam is an upper beam and said second beam is a lower beam underlying said upper beam, and wherein said first channel of said upper beam is positioned below said second channel of said upper beam, and wherein said first channel of said lower beam is positioned above said second channel of said lower beam.
 15. The invention of claim 13 wherein said first component comprises a barrier member.
 16. The invention of claim 15 wherein said second component comprises a marker board.
 17. The invention of claim 16 wherein said second component further comprises a hanger having an insert portion engaging said second channel, and wherein said marker board is disposed on said hanger.
 18. The invention of claim 15 wherein said second component comprises a shelf.
 19. The invention of claim 13 wherein said second channel of said first and second beams has a T-shaped cross-section.
 20. The invention of claim 13 wherein said first and second beams each comprise a pair of said first and second channels positioned on opposite sides of said first and second beams respectively, and further comprising a third component extending between said first and second beams and engaging said first channel on said side of each of said first and second beams opposite said side of said first and second beams on which said first component is engaged with said first channels on each of said first and second beams.
 21. A method for configuring a workstation comprising: providing a first horizontal beam comprising longitudinally extending first and second channels, wherein said first channel is spaced apart from said second channel in a substantially parallel relationship therewith; a second horizontal beam comprising longitudinally extending first and second channels, wherein said first channel of said second beam is spaced apart from said second channel of said second beam in a substantially parallel relationship therewith; disposing a first component between said first and second beams and engaging said first channel on each of said first and second beams with said first component; and engaging at least one of said second channels of said first and second beams with a second component.
 22. The invention of claim 21 further comprising sliding said second component within said at least one of said second channels of said first and second beams.
 23. The invention of claim 21 further comprising disengaging said second component from said at least one of said second channels of said first and second beams and engaging at least one of said second channels of said first and second beams with a third component.
 24. The invention of claim 21 further comprising engaging at least one of said second channels of said first and second beams with a third component.
 25. The invention of claim 24 wherein said second component is engaged with said second channel of said first beam and wherein said third component is engaged with said second channel of said second beam.
 26. The invention of claim 21 wherein said first component comprises a barrier member.
 27. The invention of claim 21 wherein said second component comprises a marker board.
 28. The invention of claim 21 wherein aid second component comprises a shelf.
 29. The invention of claim 21 wherein said second channel of said first and second beams has a T-shaped cross-section. 